‘Tis the holiday season, 50+ black women readers and an ideal time to treat yourself with a self-care, well-deserved gift(s).
Asked what we would like as a present, we often say we are unsure. This being an ideal time to ask for that perfect gift we keep promising ourselves.
Here are six self-care ideas, some with no monetary cost and which are year-round:
Doing absolutely nothing – We can all relate to this. Who does not want to relax with no to-do list? This brings to mind Bruno Mars’ ‘The Lazy Song,’ which humorously expresses it in a video (love that video). The first verse leads into a list of scenarios depicted in a dance routine.“Today, I don’t feel like doing anything. I just wanna lie in my bed. Don’t feel like picking up my phone. So, leave a message at the tone, ’cause’cause today, I swear I’m not doing anything”.
Laughing – Laughter is referred to as the best medicine for good reason. Studies show it strengthens the immune system, protects against the damaging effects of stress, and triggers the release of the happy neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. Watch comedy movies, sitcoms, or YouTube videos of comedians. A favourite is Gina Yashere, she’s funny as hell and often talks about her mother and Nigerian heritage. Telephone or invite around your comedic friend who never fails to make you laugh hysterically.
Listening to music – Taking time out to listen to music can bring happiness, improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety and aid physical health. As quoted by Aretha Franklin, “Music does a lot of things for a lot of people. It’s transporting for sure. It can take you right back, years back, to the very moment when certain things happened in your life. It’s uplifting, it’s encouraging, it’s strengthening”. Music encourages you to dance. Why not? Go ahead, dance and enjoy.
Self-reinvention – Calls for an improved version of the self, shedding old patterns for personal growth. What are your unfulfilled desires? My goal was to have a second language, and I am currently learning Spanish and enjoying the challenge.
Spa Treatment – No woman, given the opportunity, would pass up a spa treatment. The enjoyment of body massages, facial, hydrotherapy or thermal therapy. Beneficial on many fronts, from stress management, detoxification, reducing muscle tension and aiding mental relaxation.
Jewellery – Most women’s ideal is to own precious or semi-precious stone jewellery, which can become heirlooms. It is said ‘diamonds are a girl’s best friend’.
The season is a time of gifting and an ideal time to treat yourself. Go ahead, what’s stopping you?
What gift would you give yourself? Let us know in the comments section.
Happy Christmas, all.
